Synths ⇝ Roland ⇝ Roland MT-32

Although it was originally released as a MIDI expander module, the MT-32 started a revolution in PC gaming sound.

The MT-32 uses Linear Arithmetic (LA) synthesis for sound generation. Roland LA synthesizers using a similar sound engine are the D-5, D-10, D-20, D-50, D-70, D-110, and D-550. It was followed by the CM-32L, a less expensive module specifically designed for use with a computer. The MT-100 is a version that adds the PR-100 sequencer.

There are two versions of the MT-32. The first version has a high-noise DAC and a MIDI buffer overflow issue. The second version has a quieter DAC, fixes the buffer overflow, and adds a headphone jack and demo songs. The newer version starts at serial number 950500.

Used MT-32 units sell for more than would be expected for a low-end module due to the popularity of retro gaming setups. If you don't need to accurately reproduce game soundtracks, one of the D-series synthesizers (particularly the D-110) may be a better choice.

Specifications

Year Released: 1987

MSRP: 550.00 USD

Polyphony: 32 notes

Multitimbral: 9 parts

Preset Patches: 128

Preset Drum Kits: 30

Effects: digital reverb

Screen: 20 character backlit LCD

Power Consumption: 9V, 650 mA

Dimensions: 305 mm x 220 mm x 45 mm

Weight: 1.5 kg

This is a tabletop module.

User Demo Videos

Rating

File Downloads

Roland MT-32 Manual

Items for Sale on Reverb

Roland MT-32 / Roland PRO-E Volume Knob Replacement Part ($9.95)

Roland MT-32 Multi-Timbral Synthesizer Module 1987 - 1992 - Black ($304.73)

Roland MT-32 Multi-Timbral Synthesizer Module 1987 - 1992 - Black ($435.33)

Roland MT-32 Multi-Timbral Synthesizer Module 1987 - 1992 - Black ($181.78)

Roland MT-32 Multi-Timbral Synthesizer Module 1987 - 1992 - Black ($348.26)

User Tips, Drum Maps, Program Numbers Technical White Paper, Rare! ($37.95)

Roland MT-32 Multi-Timbral Synthesizer Module 1987 - 1992 - Black ($304.73)

Roland MT-32 Multi Timbre MIDI Sound Module ($269.99)

Roland MT-32 OS v1.07 EPROM Firmware Upgrade SET / New ROM Final Update Chips MT32 ($24.99)

Power Supply Replacement for ROLAND MT-32 SOUND MODULE ADAPTER 9V ($10.93)